Is it safe to take vitamin C while breastfeeding?

Is It Safe to Take Vitamin C While Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding mothers often seek guidance on nutrition to ensure both their health and that of their infants. One common query revolves around the safety of taking vitamin C supplements during this crucial period. The consensus among health experts is that vitamin C is not only safe but also beneficial for breastfeeding mothers and their babies.
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in various bodily functions. It is essential for the growth and repair of tissues, acts as a powerful antioxidant, and is crucial for the development of bones, teeth, and collagen in infants. The recommended daily intake for lactating women is approximately 120 mg, while infants under six months require about 40 mg.
Benefits of Vitamin C During Breastfeeding
Incorporating vitamin C into a breastfeeding mother’s diet can have several advantages. Notably, it helps in boosting the immune system, which is particularly important during the postpartum period when mothers may be more susceptible to infections. Additionally, vitamin C is a key component of human milk, contributing to the nutritional needs of the infant.
Experts recommend that mothers consume foods rich in vitamin C, such as fruits and vegetables, to meet their nutritional needs. However, if dietary intake is insufficient, supplementation is generally considered safe, provided that mothers adhere to recommended dosages.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While vitamin C is largely safe, there are some considerations to keep in mind. High doses, particularly those exceeding 1000 mg per day, can increase the levels of vitamin C in breast milk, but studies indicate that these levels do not pose a health risk to infants. However, mothers should avoid excessive supplementation, as very high doses can lead to gastrointestinal disturbances and other side effects.
It’s also essential for breastfeeding mothers to consult with healthcare providers before starting any new supplements. This ensures that any supplementation aligns with their overall health needs and dietary intake.
Conclusion
In summary, taking vitamin C while breastfeeding is safe and can be beneficial for both mother and child. With the right approach—focusing on a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and considering supplements when necessary—mothers can support their health and that of their infants effectively. As always, personalized medical advice from a healthcare professional is recommended to tailor nutritional needs to individual circumstances.

What products should you not use while breastfeeding?

Avoid products containing methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. 2. Phthalates: Found in many fragrances and plastics, phthalates have been linked to developmental and reproductive issues. Look out for ingredients such as diethyl phthalate (DEP) and dibutyl phthalate (DBP).

Can vitamin C decrease milk supply?

Top 5 food / drinks to avoid if you have a low milk supply:
Excess Vitamin C & Vitamin B –supplements or drinks with excessive vitamin C Or B (Vitamin Water, Powerade, oranges/orange juice and citrus fruits/juice.)

What can I take for a cold while breastfeeding?

Most cold medicines are safe while breastfeeding, especially if you take them short term and only when you need them. Some of the medications that are safe include: Expectorants that contain guaifenesin (Mucinex®, Robitussin® and others). Cough suppressants that contain dextromethorphan (DayQuil®, Delsym® and others).

What not to take while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

Does vitamin C pass through breast milk?

Vitamin C is responsible for synthesizing collagen and is necessary for proper wound healing. Vitamin C is also secreted in breast milk — thus, a higher dietary intake is recommended for lactating women to make up for this loss.

What not to do when breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

1. Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
2. Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
3. Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Is it safe to use vitamin C serum while breastfeeding?

Can you use a Vitamin C serum while breastfeeding? You sure can! Incorporate some Vitamin C into your skincare regime, such as Aspect Dr Active C serum. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that stabilises free-radicals (unstable molecules that inflame the skin), improving dryness, collagen damage, fine lines and wrinkles.

Does vitamin C affect breast milk supply?

The recommended vitamin C intake in lactating women is 120 mg daily, and for infants aged 6 months or less is 40 mg daily. [1] High daily doses up to 1000 mg increase milk levels, but not enough to cause a health concern for the breastfed infant and is not a reason to discontinue breastfeeding.

What vitamins should not be taken while breastfeeding?

AVOID dose of vitamin A above 700-800 mcg/day and vitamin B6 above 20-50 mg/day. Iodine can concentrate in breastmilk so do not take levels in excess of 100% RDA. There are no studies on the safety of high dose intra-venous (IV) vitamin drips in breastfeeding mothers.

What is the best vitamin for breastfeeding mothers?

What Nutrients Do Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women Need?

• Folic acid.
• Healthy Fats.
• Iodine.
• Iron.
• Protein.
• Vitamin A.
• Vitamin B12.
• Vitamin D. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium for healthy bones and teeth.